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The Drop 2025 - Ripple summaries
The Global South Doesn’t Need Your HQ. But It Might Need Your Business Model
The Ripple dove into how investing works in the Global South, especially for climate and growth businesses.
Folks shared stories about what it takes to adjust business models for each country, noting that what works in one spot might flop in another.
Some takeaways stood out:
• Real success happens when you know your local market inside and out.
• Scaling up from a handful of farmers or startups to thousands is always tough.
• Networks matter – sometimes it's who you know, not just what you know.
• Class systems and access make expansion harder than you’d think.
• Local cash is key to avoiding nasty currency swings.
• Creative funding, like revolving grants, helps fill the gaps.
• Collaboration between investors and on-the-ground teams always wins.
Bottom line, Ripple’s group realized that growing climate solutions isn’t just about tech or money. It’s also about understanding people, local markets, and sharing what works along the way.
HOSTS
Serhat Aydogdu
LeapFrog Investments
Rafael Mace
Just Climate / Generation IM